“Excuse me?”
“Please, join me for dinner this evening.”
“Six against one, I’m not afraid of those odds.” She smiled. Her business was one that was mostly run by men and she’d always managed to fare well despite that, never feeling like there was anything that could hold her back. So, bring it on.
“Well, it would be one against one, actually. As you’ll take note, I said ‘me’, not ‘we’.”
One against one, that wasn’t as comfortable for her. She resisted the urge to gulp. “I only have about an hour; would that be enough?”
“Perhaps. I’m staying at the Ritz Carlton. Meet me at Per Se, 7 PM. Does that work?”
“I’ll have to check my schedule.” She could have palm heeled her forehead for saying that, because it was ridiculous. She knew her schedule all of the time, a wonderful benefit of a photographic memory. “If you’ll give me a minute.”
She walked out of the conference room and over to Bev, who had just returned to her desk, and mouthed, “This is insane.”
She mouthed back. “He is gorgeous.” The she raised her eyebrows.
“That’s the problem. He knows it all too well. I can’t stand that type of man.”
Then she walked back into the conference room, “7 PM should be fine, but if you don’t have reservations, you may have to choose another place.”
“I am certain I’ll be able to get a table.” His voice was calm and assured.
“Sheikh power, huh?” Her response was laden with sarcasm that was neither subtle nor hidden.
“Perhaps.”
If he said perhaps one more time she thought she might belt out a loud scream like she was a banshee. But darn, if he didn’t look confident, poised, and completely and utterly masculine in how he said it, though.
After he finally left with his entourage, she went out to Bev. “Google Sheikh Ravi Kapoor for me. Let’s find out everything there is to know about this guy.”
“Yes, ma’am.” Bev gave her a sailor salute and then got to clicking on her keyboard.
“He’s just as good looking in pictures as he is in person, Sasha.”
“I want the details of the man. Something to distract me from those good looks, maybe even something that makes him downright ugly and unattractive.”
Bev shook her head. “Sometimes you just have to look a gift horse in the mouth.”
“Not this time.”
“Okay, here’s something. He’s a known playboy, a technology lover, known for having the best of the best.”
“Not atypical of a gazillionaire.”
“Not quite there, but he’s a billionaire…lots of billions.”
“Explains the casual offer. The money really meant nothing to him, which means that all of you likely wouldn’t either. I made the right call.”
“So, should I cancel your dinner?” Bev’s snarky grin showed that she was teasing Sasha.
“You’re so naughty. Behave or you’ll be the first to go.” Then she winked and walked away.
***
Ravi personally made a few calls to ensure that he could have a reservation for two at Per Se for 7 PM that evening. His request of a private table for two in the corner, with a view to the outside and the fountain in the park down below was granted. This was no surprise to him, of course, because when you wanted something you simply needed the intelligence and clout to ask for it in a way where saying “no” was not an option. By veering from that strategy, he’d fallen short in his pursuit of Mason Technologies; he’d trusted an attorney over his ability to negotiate the deals he wanted and on the terms he wanted them. But now, on the other side of his negotiations was a woman who had a face and some spirit, and how lovely she wore them both. Her intelligence and vibrancy drew him in, reminding him of how exhilarating it could be to feel the adventure of pursuit. He’d get that company, of that he had no doubt, and maybe she’d be the sweet perk he hadn’t anticipated. A wonderful night to seal the deal before he made his way back to Dubai.
As he walked into the restaurant, alone and without his entourage, which was what he preferred more often than not, he walked up to the maitre de and they seemed to just know who he was without him needing to state it. Perfect.
“I’ll take you over to your table, Sheikh. Your dining companion hasn’t arrived yet, but as soon as she does, we’ll bring her right over.”
“Thank you.”
They walked to the table and he looked at it, then to the table next to it. “Those flowers on this table, please.” He pointed and his request was fulfilled, no questions asked.
Then he sat down, ordered a martini, and waited. He glanced down at his watch. It was 6:55 PM. Would she be prompt or one of those people who kept him waiting? And if she did, he wondered if that was her idea of a power play or simply just poor time management. In the end, it mattered not, because five minutes passed by quickly and she entered the room at 7 PM precisely. He didn’t even need to turn around to know that she was there; he sensed her presence.
“Good evening,” she said to him, his back still to her.
He stood up right away and took in her beautiful sight and smiled. “Good evening, Ms. Mason.”
“Sasha, please.”
He repeated her name and the way it rolled off his tongue was all the confirmation that she needed to see that he was indeed a playboy, and a masterful one at that. Well, she wasn’t so bad at that game, herself, although she’d never played it in business. But this…this was fun. He wanted something from her and she’d be the naiveté woman to him, an illusion that would bring her a little fodder in her crazy, hectic life.
“Please, sit down.” He pressed his hand on the small of her back.
Inside she jolted.
“Thank you,” she said. After seated she ordered a Malbec from the waitress, who’d silently showed up, like a whisper in the wind.
“I’ll admit that I don’t know if I should call you sheikh or Ravi.”
“What would you prefer?”
“Ravi, I think. After all, we’re all more than just our titles alone, right?”
“Perhaps.”
Her smile was plastered and she refused to show her irritation at that answer.
“Have you dined here before, Sasha?”
“No, I’ve heard wonderful things, of course.”
“Well, we’ll both be experiencing it for the first time together.”
His hand extended out, and she noticed the deep sapphire cufflinks on his light blue silk shirt. Very eloquent and the color made him seem softer, less daunting than he’d looked earlier in his black suit with silver shirt and tie.
“You look lovely this evening.” He glanced at her, his eyes lingering on her neckline, which was a V-line, not too deep, but deep enough to catch the eye. Her dress was black and simple, with bits of black stitching adding some dimension and character, while remaining classically eloquent. It was her taking care of business dress, as she liked to call it. She smiled.
“What’s amusing you?” He watched the curve of her lips and felt compelled to reach forward and kiss them, but sensed that would go over like a lead balloon. If needed patience, he’d find it. In this situation, it may well be worth it.
“Just that I’m here, in front of you, trying to figure out what your angle is.”
“Why do I have to have an angle? You’re a beautiful woman and a business woman, I’m a business man. Having dinner makes great sense.”
“For the hour you have me.” She chuckled softly and bit her lip. If anything, she was able to laugh at herself when she knew she said something that was truly unrealistic. Getting in and out of this meal in an hour was definitely not a hope based in reality. Plus, her legs felt surprisingly weak, making it unlikely that she could easily get up and walk out without showing her weakness. Was it his presence or his offer that made her feel that way? She suspected that it was both.
“I’ll just wish that times goes by slower than it ever has before.”
&n
bsp; “Can I be forthright with you, Ravi?”
“I expect nothing less from you, or anyone.”
“Why did you set your sights on Mason Technologies?”
“Well, I am a fan of drones, they appeal to the playful side of me and the business side, as well. In the States there is a drone racing league starting and I see how that would catch on and become an international trend, one that I’d like to get in on. I want to offer the drones and create the events.”
“And that’s the best use of your time?”
“It’s one use of my time.”
“Well, I mostly work with government contractors with my drones, a considerably different beast with different connections and processes than that of someone who is interested in commercial drones for civilian use.”
“The process is compatible. I’ve researched it.”
“You still didn’t answer, how did you come to want to purchase my company?”
“The numbers added up and it had the best appeal to me. I had no idea who you were, personally, as your face didn’t matter as much as what your business provided.”
“My face?” She was surprised at the unusual statement. “Does my face matter now?”
“Well, it’s lovely, for certain. I’m sure you are aware of that, though, and that your looks have gotten you many opportunities in life.”
She was officially offended, but not willing to give him the pleasure of showing that the barb had ticked her off. She inhaled deeply and took a sip of her wine, giving herself those valuable seconds to recompose herself.
“Surely you are not suggesting that my looks has played a larger role than my intelligence in my success?”
“I said no such thing.”
“It would be easy to assume, I suppose, as I’m sure you can relate, having looks yourself and an endless supply of money to spend however you so choose.”
“Are you suggesting that I’m frivolous to the value of money?”
“Perhaps.” Yes, she was able to say that back. It felt good, too.
“I assure you, I am not. I love money, therefore I don’t hand it away on what I don’t think is valuable.”
“Why overpay for my company then, compared to starting your own and bringing on qualified people?”
“It already exists and serves my purposes. Why reinvent what I can buy?”
“But knowing that I’m not for sale—” She paused. Wrong choice of words. “—that my business isn’t for sale, why fly over here and waste your time, money, and resources? I’m not going to change my mind.”
“Perhaps.”
“I’m not going to.” She repeated it, hoping it would be the exclamation point on her statement.
“I don’t want to talk about that tonight. I want to learn all about you and your life, both personal and professional.”
Oh no, she thought, the game has just changed. Sasha wasn’t a huge fan of talking about her personal life. It was always hard to explain and it just was. She lived and breathed technology and unlike many women, at the end of the day she was more than glad to have alone time in her penthouse, free of additional conversation.
Sasha began to answer his questions, sharing information about her family growing up—her parents and one brother—and how she loved New York City and was unable to fathom living anywhere else, despite it not being the most ideal place for a business such as hers to reach its ultimate maximum potential.
“Where do you test your drones?” he asked.
“We have some land that borders the Catskill Mountains. It’s private, lots of various terrains, and ideal. Those are fun days when we get to go test the product, or demonstrate it.”
“Could I have a demonstration?”
“You could, but remember, we mostly work in government drones, which are different than the types you can buy for civilian use.”
“It would still be fascinating to see.”
“Well, I don’t think that there are any events planned in the near future. I’m sure you’ll be back home by then.”
“Maybe I shall send my team back and extend my stay for as long as I feel it’s prudent.”
“You’re relentless, Ravi.” It was more of an observation spoken aloud than a condemnation of any sort. “It bears repeating to remind you that I’m serious about not selling Mason Technology.”
“I believe I understood your message the first time.”
“Second, maybe, but if you got it the first time, you’d be at home in Dubai, staring out of your high rise and taking in the sights.”
“Ah, you’ve researched me.”
“I have. You’re an interesting character.”
“How so?”
“Well, you are so unapologetic. You just do what you wish, seemingly fearlessly.”
“Is that a bad thing?”
“I admire it, actually. It’s quite refreshing, as you know what you get.”
“I wouldn’t be so certain of that. We all have things that we choose to keep hidden from others, our secret intentions and desires.”
She felt an instant response to his words, which somehow had converted to a sexual innuendo that made her feel a flutter in her stomach. Like a crush, but in a very adult way. She was not dealing with a boy, but a determined and seemingly resilient man.
“So, Ravi, tell me more about your life back home.” She needed to divert the attention from herself. It was such a strong sensation that it felt rather urgent, in fact.
Ravi went on to share some basics on his life, but nothing really intense. She recognized it because it was not unlike how she’d responded to him. He was mirroring her, which amused her.
Before they knew it, three hours had passed and the bill was being paid. Then they went outside and stood on the sidewalk, people brushing past them in a very New York way—automatic “excuse me’s” with their heads buried in their phones. The night was nice, which meant that more people were out than what usually were if it was cold or rainy.
“This has been a wonderful evening, really nice. Thank you, Ravi.”
“It’s my pleasure. I don’t suppose that I’d be able to get a tour of your business tomorrow?”
“Call Bev.” She winked and laughed. “Yes, I think you’ve earned that. How about 5 PM, just as the day is winding down? I don’t need all the employees panicking, wondering what may be going on.”
“Because nothing is. I’m just a drone enthusiast.” He smiled at her, only half of his mouth going upward.
“Exactly. Will it be just you or your entire group?” She hoped he didn’t misconstrue her question; it was a matter of logistics and badges—nothing more.
“What do you prefer?”
“I don’t have a preference.”
“Just me, since you’re not selling, no need to involve the others. They can pursue some other interests that I’m also exploring.”
“You are a busy guy.”
Then there was an awkward silence.
“May my driver give you a ride home?”
“No, that’s okay. I’ll take a taxi.”
“As you wish.”
Then there was another awkward silence and the two looked at each other, both intrigued and drawn to each other, but each also having calculating looks that showed they didn’t fully trust the other wasn’t up to something. Yet, they were both intrigued enough to continue the dance that they’d begun…whatever dance that may be.
A taxi pulled up, they shook hands, and then she left, taking one last glance at him on the sidewalk. He stood there, hands in pockets, and just stared at her like he was posing for a GQ lay-out.
***
Sasha was anxious when she woke up the following morning and nothing she did could shake it. Focusing on her breathing to calm her didn’t help; spinning so fast on her recumbent bike that her legs turned wobbly didn’t help; even her large dark chocolate mocha with an extra shot of espresso didn’t help. She just prayed that a busy day at work would force her to get her head completely in the game.
When she walked into the office, no one was there yet. It was 6:30 AM and she was grateful for the silence. She went to the fish bowl and sat down, opened up her laptop, and checked to see if there was anything new. Of course, there was not—yet—because she’d just checked it a half hour before, just before she left her home.
Going to her online calendar she blocked out the 5:00 PM time slot just to make sure that nothing got scheduled in. RK, 1 hour, reason…hmm. It seemed strange to put tour, but in the back of her mind she’d been thinking about him for something else—something other than his sexy looks—his money. It sounded shallow but it was true. She was a business woman and a man with interest in drones and money was a logical connection to make. In her personal life, his money was irrelevant, but for work, well, she could entertain it. Maybe he would be a good investor with favorable terms for her new incubator project—drones that could perform underwater surveillance. That was going to be a costly endeavor, as there was no prior product out there. It was a first and she wanted that to help cement the mark that she’d tried to make in the world of drone technology.
She smiled and looked up only when Bev called out a friendly good morning. Sasha watched as the always energetic woman plopped down her signature huge black bag. Everyone teased her that she had everything in that bag. And it was so heavy, practically weighing more than her slight frame.
SHEIKH'S SURPRISE BABY: A Sheikh Romance Page 2